Patient pathway at the Clínic

A patient’s first visit to the Clínic usually follows a referral from another neurologist, whether from the Barcelona health area, elsewhere in Catalonia, or other parts of Spain, when atypical parkinsonism, or specifically PSP, is suspected.

Where possible, this first visit is conducted jointly with a neurologist and an advanced practice nurse (APN). This allows time to listen to the patient and their family, explain the condition, outline the necessary tests, and begin planning ongoing care and follow-up.

In this initial phase, and depending on individual needs, the patient may also be referred to other professionals, such as speech therapists, dietitians, social workers, or psychologists.

To complete all necessary tests efficiently, patients may be offered a short-scheduled admission or an assessment at the day hospital.

These tests may include a brain MRI scan, more specialised imaging tests such as SPECT or PET scans — some used in clinical care and others in research — blood tests and, in some cases, cerebrospinal fluid analysis.

When the onset of the disease occurs at a young age or when it is necessary to rule out other diagnoses, genetic testing may also be carried out.

Once the diagnosis has been confirmed, follow-up is usually scheduled every four months, involving both the neurology team and specialised nursing staff.

Patients who meet certain criteria are referred to the Day Hospital for Neurodegenerative Diseases, where they can receive speech therapy, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and cognitive stimulation.

When follow-up is carried out through a primary care centre, intermediate care facilities or residential centres, the Clínic team maintains contact with these professionals to coordinate treatments and care.

If a patient experiences a sudden or unexpected deterioration, there are coordinated circuits with primary care, intermediate hospitals and emergency services to rule out intercurrent causes such as infections, intoxications or falls. Telephone assistance is also available, and appointments can be brought forward whenever necessary.